By Samuel Ike, Abuja

Operatives of the Abia State Police Command have recovered 28 human skulls and several human bones during a raid on suspected criminal camps located in the forests of Umuaku-Isuochi and Nneato communities in Umunneochi Local Government Area of the state.

The discovery was made during an intelligence led operation carried out by the Command’s tactical teams as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and enhance security across the state.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, the operation was conducted on Saturday following directives from the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, Mr Wilfred Afolabi.

She explained that the operation involved personnel drawn from the Violent Crime Response Unit, Anti Kidnapping Unit, Anti Cultism Unit, Intelligence Response Unit, Rapid Response Squad and the Isuochi Divisional Police Headquarters.

Chinaka disclosed that upon sighting the approaching security operatives, suspected criminals occupying the camps fled into the surrounding forest, abandoning the locations which were subsequently destroyed by the police.

During a thorough search of the camps, officers recovered 28 human skulls and other human bones believed to be linked to victims of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The police spokesperson said investigations have commenced to determine the identities of the victims and establish the circumstances surrounding their deaths, while efforts have been intensified to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.

She added that surveillance and monitoring of the affected areas have been strengthened to prevent the camps from being reoccupied by criminal elements.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Command’s determination to rid Abia State of criminal activities and ensure that there is no safe haven for kidnappers, cultists and other violent offenders.

He also called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing investigations and other crime fighting efforts.

The latest operation underscores the sustained efforts of the Abia State Police Command to combat kidnapping and violent crimes, particularly in communities bordering neighbouring states where criminal gangs have often sought refuge.